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kings of the city of Ayodhya (in North East India). After the passing of King Nabhiraya, Rishabhadeva was crowned as king. Rishabhadeva fathered several progeny from his two queens.
One day, King Rishbadeva was seated on his magnificent throne, surrounded by hundreds of guest kings. From his throne he was enjoying the beautiful dance of a glamorous woman named Nilanjana. As the celestial performer was dancing and entertaining the kings, she suddenly fainted and died.
With her fall and sudden death, King Rishabhadeva was faced with the reality of the ephemeral nature of this transient world. His appetite for enjoyment and attachment faded and he became dyed with the color of detachment and dispassion. In spite of the attempts of his family and friends to dissuade him, he abandoned his crown and left his home in search of Self- Knowledge (atma Jnana).
King Rishabhadeva became an ascetic. He sat in meditation with complete absorption for six months. It is said that he later maintained silence for 1000 years, remaining immersed in the inner practice of meditation for the whole time. Through his practice of this deep state of meditation he attained the state of Kevali Jnana (Highest Knowledge).
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